Noa Essengue, a standout forward for Ratiopharm Ulm in the German Basketball Bundesliga, has made a career-defining decision to leave his team during the BBL Finals to attend the 2025 NBA Draft. With Ulm leading Bayern Munich 2-1 in a best-of-five series, Essengue’s choice to prioritize the draft has led to debates among fans, as he is a projected lottery pick.
Born on Dec 18, 2006, in Orléans, France, he stands at 6-foot-10 with a 7-1 wingspan and is one of the most promising talents in his age group. Playing for Ratiopharm Ulm, he has averaged 12.4 points and 4.3 rebounds, 1 assist per game in the 2024/2025 season, as per Basketball Reference.
Fan Reactions to Noa Essengue Leaving the German Finals
The reaction on social media, particularly X, has been swift and divided. Fans have split into two camps: those who see his decision as a betrayal of his team and those who view it as a justifiable step toward achieving his dreams.
Some fans argue that leaving during the Finals shows a clear lack of commitment, which could potentially damage his reputation. Phillip Hash commented, “Huge red flag. It would be a shame for him to drop to 18.” This suggests that his draft stock could slide from a lottery pick to a lower selection, such as 18th overall, due to perceived selfishness.
Another fan, Nic Thomas, comments, “This is not a good representation of his character at all.” He is directly criticizing his integrity.
Also, Jake Weinbach gives his take: “I understand it since his dreams are about to come true, but not a fan of this decision from Essengue. NBA teams value character, and leaving your team in the midst of the German League Finals is not an ideal sign.” He acknowledges the draft’s allure but frowns at his decision.
Projected lottery pick Noa Essengue is reportedly leaving his team, who lead 2-1 in the German League Finals, to attend the NBA Draft, per @BasketNews_com
“NBA Draft prospect Noa Essengue will miss the remainder of the German league finals to attend the NBA Draft ceremony, per… pic.twitter.com/nB4KmPNC07
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 24, 2025
On the other hand, many defended him, arguing that the NBA Draft is a rare and transformative event that outweighs a domestic league title.
Cole Warner offers his own take: “Once in a lifetime opportunity. Let the kid enjoy his moment.” He celebrates his opportunity to shine on a global stage.
Another fan ChoZen offers a different perspective: “People mad at him for this but like… what would you do? The draft is a once in a lifetime opportunity and the NBA is his future, not some German league lol.” This fan’s perspective prioritizes his long-term career over short-term team goals.
Critics warn that NBA teams might interpret Essengue’s departure as a red flag, questioning his loyalty and ability to prioritize team success. In a league where locker room chemistry and coachability are scrutinized, this could push him down draft boards, as one of the fans suggested with his mention of dropping to 18th.
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